Diamondbacks' All-Star bat could fill the Cubs’ Kyle Tucker-sized hole

The most annoying part of the Chicago Cubs' offseason has been how the team is viewing their offense. Jed Hoyer isn't worried about the struggles the team had to score runs during the playoffs because they were one of the league's best offenses during the first half of the season. Considering the difference between the two versions of the Cubs' offense last season was a healthy Kyle Tucker, and Tucker isn't on the mind of Chicago this offseason, Hoyer's faith in the offense doesn't actually make sense.

Even if the Cubs are confident in the starting lineup they could use if they had a game tomorrow, it's hard to ignore the Tucker-sized hole that has been created. If he's not going to be traded, Owen Caissie needs to have some runway; there's no issue with that plan. But there shouldn't be complacency for the Cubs' front office when mapping out their starting lineup.

If there's an opportunity for the Cubs to add an impact bat this offseason, they need to be willing to entertain such an idea. Even though the Cubs can likely be ruled out as a suitor for Tucker, Cody Bellinger, and Kyle Schwarber, the team may be keeping an eye on the free-agent markets of Alex Bregman and Eugenio Suarez. If either of their markets stalls, the Cubs likely will rekindle their interest.

But that shouldn't be the only scenario. An intriguing name has entered the trade market with multiple national insiders suggesting that the Arizona Diamondbacks could trade three-time All-Star Ketel Marte this offseason. MLB Network's Jon Morosi suggested that the Diamondbacks are listening to trade offers for Marte this offseason, and ESPN's Jesse Rogers spoke with multiple MLB executives who believe Marte could be on the move this winter.

Ketel Marte would be a win-now move for the Cubs' offense while also serving a purpose for the future.

The primary appeal of Marte for the Cubs' offense is his bat. Look no further than last season in Arizona when Marte clubbed 28 home runs while posting a 145 wRC+. In the middle of a team-friendly seven-year deal worth $116.5 million, for the type of production he offers, Marte would be an easy fit on the Cubs' books moving forward.

Known mostly as a second baseman, Marte is capable of playing third base, shortstop, and center field. Initially, the goal would be for Marte to serve as the Cubs' third baseman while Matt Shaw moved into a utility role. However, after 2026, Marte could be an insurance policy at second base in the event that Nico Hoerner leaves via free agency.

This wouldn't be a repeat of the Tucker trade, considering Marte is under contract through 2030, and his arrival would stabilize a Cubs' offense that currently looks worse on paper than where they were at the end of the 2025 season.